Lesbian,Gay,Bisexual,Transgender,Queer 121 - Mathematical Innovations and Social Contexts

Institution:

Colgate University

Subject:

Description:

K. Valente This course invites students interested in mathematics to explore aspects of the discipline that are not typically addressed elsewhere in the curriculum. It does so by emphasizing the historical and social contexts in which significant ideas emerged. The period of primary interest includes the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, continuing developments (e.g., non-Euclidean geometry and the precise conception of an infinite set) in mathematical thinking led many to consider seriously, and perhaps for the first time, fundamental questions. What constitutes mathematics What accounts for the certainty of its knowledge Ultimately there are not simple or unambiguous answers. However, by examining the discipline's "crisis in foundations," students can investigate the special nature, production, and possible limitations of mathematical knowledge. Additionally, the course pays attention to ways in which mathematical debates of the day were promoted, interpreted, and used to specific ends by and for those outside of the discipline. No mathematics beyond the high school level is assumed.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.colgate.edu

Phone Number:

(315) 228-1000

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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